This workflow provides step-by-step guidance for glowforge pro laser cutting workflow.
Refer to the FAQs below for answers to frequently asked questions.
Wood, plywood, acrylic, leather, cork, fabric, rubber, paper. CANNOT cut: PVC (toxic fumes), vinyl, fiberglass, carbon fiber, or anodized aluminum.
Yes. Cast clear acrylic cuts cleanly—not transparent in cut line, appears frosted/white. Use 80-100 power, 100 speed. Avoid polycarbonate (plastic will melt).
About 3-5 minutes for a medium-sized design. Glowforge is not the fastest laser—optimized for detail over speed. Multiple passes at lower power produce cleaner cuts than one high-power pass.
Material surface not flat, lens dirty, or power settings off. Check material sits flat, clean lens with lens cleaning kit (in Glowforge store), and test engrave on scrap to verify settings.
Yes, vegetable-tanned leather only. Synthetic/chrome-tanned leather can off-gas harmful chemicals. Test leather first to confirm type. Use 80-90 power, 100 speed.
Add-on accessory ($500+) that allows cutting items up to 11 feet long. Only works on Glowforge Pro model. Requires ramp installation and precision alignment.